With winter around the corner, it’s time to get your house ready to withstand the colder temperatures. Getting your house prepared starts with your roof, especially since it’s what keeps your home warm and dry inside. Don’t neglect this important step this season; winterize your roof–your family and pocketbook will thank you!
Burr! It’s getting cold outside! Take these steps to make sure your roof is prepared for the cooler temperatures! #RoyalCrownRoofing Share on X
Winterize Now, Keep Warm Later
We’re starting to get a taste of cooler weather, which means the chance of snow and ice is increasing. This is the time to winterize your roof. Without proper preparation, your roof could collapse and end up ruining your winter vacation. Focus on these ways to protect the roof of your home this season.
- Inspect your Houston roof
- Trim the tree limbs
- Empty the gutters
- Replace caulking
- Watch out for pests
1) Inspect your Houston roof
The first step of getting prepared is to perform a roof inspection.
- On the exterior, check for damaged shingles, mold, or rotted wood that could worsen with cooler weather. If you have a chimney, schedule a cleaning and ensure that it has proper ventilation.
- After you’ve checked the outside of the house, don’t forget to inspect the inside. Subtle leaks in the ceiling or problems with the attic insulation could be a sign of a bigger problem from the roof.
2) Trim the tree limbs
The next step is to look at the trees that might surround your house. In the case of a severe storm, overhanging trees can snap and the tree branches might land on your roof. Without taking this step beforehand, your house might be exposed to the wind and rain.
3) Empty the gutters
You should be cleaning your gutters throughout the year, but it’s important to ensure they’re empty and working properly as you’re winterizing your roof. If you have clogged gutters, melting snow and ice won’t have a place to drain and will end up causing water damage.
Pro Tip: Avoiding damage to your home’s exterior starts with a gutter system. It’s a good idea to clean them every 3 months to keep your foundation and roof in the best shape.
4) Replace caulking
If you’re a homeowner, you’re probably familiar with caulk. It’s used to seal joints, seams, and every other corner imaginable. As the temperatures start to drop outside, it’s important to make sure the caulk throughout your house hasn’t become wrinkled or cracked. Replacing the caulk will prevent air leaks and improve your energy efficiency.
5) Watch out for pests
As the winter season approaches, be aware that pests might build nests or create holes in your roof to stay warm. From squirrels to birds to rats, you’ll have stay on watch throughout the season. Consider hiring a pest control expert to help you look for signs of damage before your roof needs repair.
Have you winterized your Woodlands home yet?
If you don’t have the time or resources available for preparation, consider hiring a professional service to inspect and clean your roof. There shouldn’t be any reason your home isn’t ready for the cold weather. The longevity and durability of your roof depend on it.
Contact us today for more information about winterizing your roof and how to keep your home in the best shape this season.